June 17, 2009: Gold and Silver Rationing Ends, World’s Most Valuable Coin, ANA Elections

Welcome to Coin Update!

Here's another round up of coin collecting news and articles from around the internet! First, the gold and silver rationing programs previously in place at the US Mint have finally come to an end. Also, the world's most valuable coin, the 1990 "No S" Lincoln Cent, an unexpected follow up to the Las Vegas gold and silver payroll story, 2009 ANA Elections, Matthew Dent wins an award, coin related book release, and notable auctions. On to the links...

The US Mint quietly announced the end of the Gold and Silver Eagle allocation programs. The long standing programs had limited the number of gold and silver bullion coins that authorized purchasers were able to order.

Separately, the US Mint will now be subleasing a portion of their headquarters to a Cuban restaurant and rum bar.

Susan Headley examines the world's most valuable coin, the 1933 Saint Gaudens Gold Double Eagle and the fate of the 20 or so coins that escaped the Mint.

The Heritage Blog takes focus on mint marks, or lack there of, with the 1990 "No S" Proof Lincoln Cent.

Remember the story about the Las Vegas business owner on trial for implementing a payroll system which recorded payment of bullion coins at face value? The newspaper that published the story has been subpoenaed for the names of every reader who posted a comment on the article.

Is the Hispanic Society of America preparing to sell its historic and valuable coin collection? The collection is reported to be worth $30-$40 million.

Have you sent in your ballot for the 2009 ANA Elections? To be counted, ballots must be received by the accounting firm compiling the results by June 26, 2009.

Matthew Dent received an award for his reverse designs on the 1p to £1 UK coins. The 1p to 50p coins can be arranged together to display the Shield of Royal Arms, which is displayed in full on the £1 coin.

A new book is released which recounts the story of the author's father who became obsessed with hoarding gold and silver to protect his family against potential economic collapse and the ensuing anarchy.

And now for some notable auctions. First, the 1996-W Smithsonian $5 Gold NGC MS70. This commemorative coin sports a low mintage of 9,068.

While the Formative Years Lincoln Cent has gotten the recent attention, the District of Columbia DDR is much more dramatic. Here's the 2009-D DC Quarter Double Die Reverse.

Last, can you believe that single 2009-P Jefferson Nickels are still selling for over $50 each?

That's it for today. Back on Friday!